Chapter 47: Unraveling Conspiracies
"Madam, you have called?" I was still awaiting his arrival when he abruptly entered the study, an air of tension clinging to him as if something significant had transpired.
"Yes, I did. You don’t have to breathe as though I’m going to steal your oxygen. I only wish to discuss matters concerning our relationship and some information about the mansion," I remarked casually, sipping from the cup of coffee placed before me. The aroma wafted through the room, filling the silence that lingered between us.
"Ah, yes. You can inquire about anything; I’m ready to answer," he replied, his demeanor appearing somewhat calmer, though I couldn’t be certain.
"Here are the contract papers," I stated, sliding the documents across the table towards him. His expression shifted, and he regarded me with eyes filled with an emotion I couldn’t quite decipher. Pity, perhaps? But why pity when I was freeing him from this unwanted bond? Why?
"Madam, as I’ve said before, can we not dwell on this topic?" he implored, repeating the same plea as before, his voice laced with a hint of desperation.
"No, Duke. This conversation must take place. Whether you desire it or not, it’s necessary. I don’t wish for a marriage that exists in name alone, and I believe you don’t either," I asserted, my gaze averted. Deep down, I did wish for a different outcome, but how could I admit that?
"I understand you’re in love with Vix. It must be difficult for you, given her commoner status. But I assure you, I can speak to my father about this. He has the power to elevate her to nobility, even to the extent of adopting her as his daughter," I offered, my hand clenching into a fist as I swallowed my own pain. This was the most painful part, acknowledging his love for another woman.
"Madam, this isn’t about her," he responded, his tone revealing that there were deeper layers to this issue, layers I was yet to uncover.
"I know you’re concerned about my father’s promise, aren’t you?" I continued.
"I know you to be a man of your word, and the entire kingdom knows this about you, Duke," I acknowledged, my voice holding a trace of admiration for the honor he had always upheld.